Sleep training tips
We started at 6 weeks old with both my babies! They started sleeping 12 hours straight shortly after we implemented these things! These are the things we did and they worked for us but just know every baby is so different! I’m no expert, I’ve read so many sleep trainings and this a mix of them all!
1.) Feed your baby every two hours during the day, this allows them to get more calories in during the day so they won’t need as many at night
2.) During the day don’t allow your baby to sleep for 45 minutes to an hour after they eat. This will help them stop associating food with sleep. Keep them up after every feeding then
3.) when your babies wake up in the night don’t feed them first. Try other methods to get them to sooth before you jump in and feed them.
-patting their chest
-putting their binky in
-turning up the sound machine
-shushing them
Then if they still don’t fall back to sleep after doing these things one after another then offer them another feeding. This allows them to sooth in other ways besides eating!
Sleep training can be a game changer for parents and babies alike. Implementing a consistent routine early on helps babies learn to self-soothe, promoting longer sleep stretches. It's crucial to tailor these strategies to suit your baby’s unique needs, as not every method works for every child. One effective approach is to ensure your baby is getting ample daytime feedings, which can help reduce nighttime hunger. Keeping your baby awake after feedings may also help them dissociate eating from sleeping, a common issue. Techniques like gentle patting, using a pacifier, or playing soothing sounds can also aid in calming a fussy baby before resorting to feeding. Parents are encouraged to maintain flexibility, remembering that variations in responses are normal. Experimenting with different techniques can lead to discovering what best helps your baby feel secure and comfortable. By fostering an environment where your baby can learn to fall asleep independently, you build a foundation for better sleep habits as they grow. As always, consulting with a pediatrician can offer personalized guidance tailored to your child's specific needs.
I did this; it was the best decision ever. My babies are 10 and 7 now, and they slept better as infants, lol.